I am using an iFix 5.5 application where the operator triggers a valve by clicking on a screen element. I have identified that the application writes to a specific bit (N14:21/15) in an SLC plc database when the valve is opened. This bit remains true until the tank level drops below 44%. However, I am puzzled as I cannot find any code related to bit 15 or word 21 in the PLC's cross-reference. The PLC does not have the tank level as an analog signal, as it is managed by a separate PLC system. My theory is that the IFIX HMI somehow detects when the tank level falls below 44% and updates the bit N14:21/15 accordingly. Does anyone know how this functionality can be achieved in IFIX, such as through a monitoring script that updates the register as an interlock?
Ifix offers a variety of solutions for this issue, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact location. One option is to utilize calculation blocks and connect various blocks/tags. Additionally, Ifix enables the inclusion of custom blocks with unique functionalities, in addition to the standard DI, DO, CA, TXT blocks. This allows for the implementation of cyclic or triggered VB scripts to accomplish tasks. It is recommended to investigate if there are any other blocks linked to the relevant tags, whether internal or external.
Thank you very much, your kindness is greatly valued.
It's pretty interesting what you've found there in the iFIX application and your theory seems plausible. The HMI could indeed be directly updating the PLC bit based on the tank level. However, this isn't a default functionality in iFIX. The application can write to PLCs using its internal scripting languages such as VBA or PDB. You might find these scripts in the Global Procedures or in an associated tag event. It's also possible that the code you're looking for is in the separate PLC system, which then communicates with your SLC PLC. I would suggest checking the communication settings and perhaps talking with the person who designed the system. They would likely know if inter-system communication was part of the design.
It sounds like there might be some cross-communication happening between your PLCs. It's possible that the tank level PLC is sending a signal directly to the IFIX application, rather than the SLC PLC, when the level drops below 44%. This could be achieved through a OPC server managing communication between IFIX and the different PLCs. As to your point about a monitoring script in IFIX, it's definitely feasible. IFIX has the capability to run embedded VBScript code, which could be used to initiate a write command to the appropriate bit based on certain conditions such as tank level. While this could provide a solution to your current puzzle, you would also want to ensure that all pieces involved in this process are well-documented to avoid future confusion.
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Answer: - In iFix 5.5, you can achieve this functionality by using a monitoring script that updates the register as an interlock. The script can detect when the tank level falls below a certain threshold (e.g., 44%) and update the corresponding bit in the PLC database.
Answer: - If you are unable to find code related to a specific bit in the PLC's cross-reference, it is possible that the functionality is implemented within the iFix HMI rather than directly in the PLC. The iFix HMI may be monitoring the tank level status and updating the bit accordingly.
Answer: - Yes, even if the tank level is managed by a separate PLC system, you can still monitor and update tags in iFix 5.5 based on the tank level status. This can be achieved through scripting or other monitoring mechanisms within the iFix application.
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